Best
Value Colleges in Phoenix in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Phoenix, AZ, combines management foundations with skills for leading organizations. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business law, human resources, operations, and strategic management. Students may build communication, data analysis, and decision-making abilities through projects and internships. Graduates pursue roles such as management trainee, business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, or operations manager. Phoenix study options include Grand Canyon University, Phoenix College, and Arizona State University's downtown Phoenix campus.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Phoenix offers flexible pathways through universities and community colleges. Students commonly take courses in developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, plus statistics and research methods. Popular local options include Grand Canyon University, University of Phoenix, and Phoenix College. A bachelor's degree can support entry-level work as a behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, or research assistant. Clinical counseling and psychologist careers typically require graduate education, supervised experience, and relevant licensure.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science program in Phoenix, AZ combines programming foundations with technology skills. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software development, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and computer networks. Students build projects, practice collaboration, and may pursue internships with employers. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or database administrators. Phoenix options include Grand Canyon University and Phoenix College, where students can begin computer science study and pursue transfer-ready preparation.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Phoenix, AZ can prepare you to support people through emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Graduates may pursue roles such as mental health counselor, substance-use counselor, school counselor, or behavioral health specialist, depending on degree, licensure, and experience. Phoenix-based options include Grand Canyon University and University of Phoenix, both offering counseling-related study pathways, including graduate counseling programs.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Phoenix, AZ offers pathways from associate to bachelor's degrees. Students typically study anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and community health, alongside clinical practice. Phoenix options include Arizona State University's Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Grand Canyon University, Phoenix College, and the University of Arizona's Phoenix campus. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, public health, or school settings.

Best Colleges in Phoenix, AZ Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $8,929.0, compared with $20,169.3 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $11,240.3.
• An average of 98.0% of students receive financial aid, versus 90.0% at top-10% schools, even though the median cost is higher at those top-ranked schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 90.0%. Schools receive an average of 12,837.25 applicants, compared with 35,882.6 applicants at top-10% schools.
• The median number of male applicants is 9.0, while the median number of female applicants is 64.0.
• The average SAT and ACT scores are not available.
• The average number of enrolled students is 19,867.38. The averages for enrolled men and women are 1,363.0 and 1,553.0, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 33.82%, compared with 53.0% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 17.0% for men and 30.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 10 offer associate's degrees, 13 offer bachelor's degrees, 7 offer master's degrees, and 3 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 13 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost alongside financial aid, and compare graduation outcomes as well as acceptance rates. They should also consider which degree levels are offered and how enrollment figures and applicant numbers relate to their preferences; SAT and ACT averages are unavailable for this ranking.

How much does studying at a college in Phoenix, AZ cost?

Based on the available figures, the average total cost of studying in Phoenix is $11,957.92 per year. This is a starting estimate, but your actual bill depends on the school, degree, residency status, housing choices, and financial aid. Tuition and fees average $10,273.25, while books and supplies average $1,316.25. The reported average for room and board is $12,468.22; because these category figures do not reconcile with the reported total, treat them as separate estimates rather than add them together.

Phoenix students can compare Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, and University of Phoenix, checking published program costs. Scholarships, grants, commuting from home, and used textbooks can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. For a multi-year degree, multiply a consistent annual estimate by expected completion time, while allowing for tuition changes and financial aid. Requesting personalized net-price estimates from colleges can make planning easier and help you feel confident about taking the next step.

How long does it take to finish college in Phoenix, AZ?

In Phoenix, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study; an associate degree often takes two, while a master's typically adds one or two years. At Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, or University of Phoenix, your timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and whether you study full time. A lighter schedule, work, or family commitments can extend the journey, and that's completely normal.

Summer classes, accelerated or online terms, transfer credits, AP exams, and prior-learning assessments can shorten your timeline. Ask Phoenix-area advisers to map credits early so they apply to your degree. Graduation outcomes make planning important: the average rate is 33.82%, versus 53% for the top 10% of schools; rates are 25% for men and 33.1% for women. These figures don't predict your outcome. Tutoring, advising, and a sustainable course load can keep you on track and make a Phoenix degree feel within reach.

Salary

College graduates in Phoenix, AZ, can expect a median alumni salary of about $53,208. For graduates of top-performing schools, the median is approximately $85,617 - a promising benchmark as you consider options such as Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, or the University of Phoenix.

• Your actual earnings will depend on your field of study, experience, and the role you pursue.
• Comparing programs at Phoenix-area colleges and universities can help you find a degree that fits your career goals and earning ambitions.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Phoenix?

There is no single official count, because the answer changes depending on whether you include branch campuses, professional schools, and online institutions headquartered in the city. A practical estimate is around a dozen university-level institutions or campuses in Phoenix. For a college search, check each campus's location and programs rather than relying on one citywide total.

What is the largest university in Phoenix?

Grand Canyon University is generally the largest university based in Phoenix by the number of students attending its campus. Its large campus in west Phoenix offers a traditional residential college experience, along with a wide range of programs and student activities. Enrollment figures can vary by year and by whether online students are included.

How many universities are there in Phoenix?

If you mean universities with a physical teaching campus inside Phoenix city limits, the count is smaller than if you include the wider metro area. Phoenix has several options, including Grand Canyon University and Arizona State University's downtown campus. Nearby cities add many more choices, so Phoenix-area totals should not be confused with city limits.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Phoenix, AZ Ranking in 2026-2027

GateWay Community College is a public, career-focused college in the Maricopa County Community College District, offering practical pathways for Phoenix-area learners. It enrolls 5,553 students, with a 29% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. Listed total study cost is $8,929, and median alumni salary is $62,224. For students living in Phoenix, AZ, its local setting can make commuting and connecting with regional employers more convenient. Consider its programs, transfer options, and support services when planning a degree close to home.

Grand Canyon University is a private Christian university in Phoenix, known for its undergraduate and graduate programs and campus community. It enrolls 113,257 students and reports 43% graduation and 79% acceptance rates. Total study cost is $16,473, while median alumni salary is $59,964. For Phoenix, AZ, students, studying locally offers access to city life, internships, and regional employers. Compare programs, campus resources, and financial aid to see whether this private setting fits your degree plans.

Paradise Valley Community College is a public two-year college in north Phoenix, serving students through associate degrees, certificates, and transfer-focused study. Its enrollment is 6,148, and its graduation rate is 19%; acceptance-rate information is unavailable. The listed total cost is $8,929, and median alumni salary is $56,085. From Phoenix, AZ, students can explore nearby campus services while staying connected to the wider metropolitan area. Review course schedules, transfer agreements, and career pathways to find a route toward your educational goals.

Phoenix College is a public community college in central Phoenix and one of the city's longstanding options for accessible, career-oriented education. It serves 10,660 students and has a 14% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. Its listed total study cost is $8,929, with median alumni salary of $51,206. For learners based in Phoenix, AZ, the central location may support convenient commuting and involvement in the city. Investigate its degree, certificate, and transfer offerings to identify programs aligned with your plans.

South Mountain Community College is a public community college in south Phoenix, offering an accessible setting for students pursuing associate degrees, certificates, and transfer pathways. It enrolls 4,516 students, with a 16% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. Total study cost is listed at $8,928, and median alumni salary is $35,761. For Phoenix, AZ, residents, its neighborhood location can help make study and community connections practical. Explore academic support and program choices to determine whether it suits your degree goals.